When Can Criminal Charges Lead to the Loss of a Professional License?

 Posted on January 28, 2026 in Professional License Defense

In the most basic sense, criminal charges can lead to the loss of nearly any professional license, from medical to real estate. In 2025, research from the Archbridge Institute found that more than 20 percent of workers in the United States hold an occupational license. This means their ability to work depends on approval from a state licensing board. For licensed professionals in Illinois, even one criminal charge can put a career at risk.

As of 2026, Illinois licensing agencies continue to closely review criminal cases involving licensed professionals. This is especially true in healthcare, pharmacy, and other regulated fields where public trust matters. If you’re facing allegations, our Chicago, IL professional license defense lawyer can help.

What Criminal Charges Can Put a Professional License at Risk?

Some criminal charges raise more concern than others. Licensing boards focus on whether the conduct connects to the profession or shows a risk to the public.

Charges that often place professional licenses at risk include:

• Drug-related offenses, especially those involving controlled substances

• Fraud, theft, or other financial crimes

• Violent offenses or crimes involving physical harm

• Sexual misconduct or exploitation

• Crimes involving dishonesty, such as lying or false statements

A charge does not need to be a felony to cause problems. Even misdemeanor charges can lead to discipline if the board alleges that the conduct shows poor judgment or unsafe behavior.

How Do Illinois Licensing Boards Decide Whether To Discipline a Professional?

Licensing boards do not work like criminal courts. Their role is not to punish people. Their job is to protect the public.

Under 20 ILCS 2105/2105-15, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has the authority to investigate licensed professionals for conduct that may violate professional rules or state law. This means a board can act based on arrest records, police reports, or complaints. They do not need to wait for a criminal case to finish.

Why Are Drug-Related Charges Especially Dangerous for Licensed Professionals?

Drug-related charges are most common in the healthcare and pharmacy fields. Boards see these cases as closely tied to patient safety and proper care.

The Illinois Controlled Substances Act and the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act give regulators broad power to discipline license holders. This includes allegations involving improper handling, misuse, or diversion of medications. Diversion means taking drugs for personal use or moving them outside approved channels. These laws can apply even if the conduct happened outside of work.

Boards often review access to medications, recordkeeping, and decision-making. Problems in these areas can lead to long-term license discipline.

What Happens During a Professional License Investigation in Illinois?

Once an investigation starts, it can move fast. Professionals may receive letters asking for written explanations, records, or interviews.

A professional license investigation often includes:

• Review of arrest records or police reports

• Requests for employment, prescribing, or billing records

• Written responses to complaints or allegations

• Interviews with employers, coworkers, or investigators

What you say matters. Statements can be used later in hearings. Even honest answers can create new problems if they are not handled carefully. Early guidance can help avoid mistakes.

How Do Criminal Defense Cases Affect Professional License Discipline?

Criminal cases and professional license cases often overlap, but they do not follow the same rules. Something that feels like a small win in criminal court can still create serious problems for a professional license. Many people are surprised to learn that a plea deal meant to "get it over with" can later be used by a licensing board.

That is why timing matters. What you say, when you say it, and how a case is resolved can affect both the court case and your ability to keep working. Looking at the criminal charge and the license issue together helps protect not just your freedom, but your livelihood, too.

When Should a Licensed Professional Talk to a License Defense Lawyer?

Many professionals wait too long to speak to an attorney once an investigation is underway. They often think the license issue can wait until the criminal case ends. This delay can make the situation worse.

It is best to seek help as soon as criminal charges are filed. It is also important to act when a licensing board sends a notice or when an employer reports conduct. Early action gives more options and control.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Rockford, IL Professional License Defense Attorney

Criminal charges can put years of education and hard work at risk. Attorney Bogdan brings over 20 years of experience defending licensed professionals. He is both a registered pharmacist and an attorney. This background helps him understand how criminal cases affect regulated professions. Call The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. at 630-310-1267 to schedule a free consultation with our Chicago, IL professional license defense lawyer today.